People
Who they are
The Tera live mainly in northern and eastern Gombe State and neighboring areas of Borno in northeastern Nigeria. In Hausa and English they are called Tera, but they call themselves Nyimatli, which is also the name of their language. Another recorded name is Pilimdi. Their language is Chadic, part of the Afro-Asiatic family.
In 2004, a workshop on the language’s writing system in Gombe produced recommendations that were later adopted by the Tera Forum’s language committee.
Where they live
1
Country
205K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Nigeria Partially reached
|
100%
|
201.000 |
How they live
The Tera are traditionally farmers and hunters. Many speak Hausa to communicate with other peoples, and increasingly they also speak English, which has grown in importance in trade and education. Tera is used on the radio: speakers recognize the variety used in news broadcasts as the standard form of the language.
What they believe
Among the Tera are Christian and Muslim families, as well as families who follow traditional beliefs. The first Christian publication in the language was a provisional translation of the Gospel of John in 1930. This was followed by the Gospel of Luke, translated by speakers of the language, and the Jesus film in Tera, which many have seen. Local churches created follow-up programs for those who watched the film.
The Bible in this people's language
A people only truly understands the gospel when they hear it in the language of their heart. See how far the translation has come.
Tera
New Testament complete
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Current stage
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)41%
Evangelicals4%
Needs
Few Tera speakers have a good understanding of God’s Word in the regional language available to them. Church leaders want to strengthen Christians’ commitment and bring the gospel to more families. The community also teaches people to read and write using the new writing system: primers in Nyimatli have been available since 2007.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for families to read and understand the New Testament in Tera.
Pray for follow-up support for Tera people who came to know Jesus through the film in their language.
Pray for the faith of Tera Christians, that they may grow in their commitment to Jesus.
Pray for Muslim Tera families and those who follow traditional beliefs to hear the gospel presented with respect.
Pray for Tera church leaders to teach using materials in the people’s language.
Pray for Tera
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar